B.C. exports expected to face biggest impact from new 50% U.S. tariffs

British Columbia's economy is expected to be hit harder than any other Canadian province after U.S. President Donald Trump announced new 50 per cent tariffs on hundreds of imported products.

According to the report, about 13 to 14 per cent of the goods B.C. is expected to export to the United States in 2025 will be subject to the new tariffs, the highest share among all provinces. The measures are expected to have the greatest impact on B.C.'s electrical machinery and equipment sector, as well as wood and wood product exports.

The tariffs will apply to more than 500 product categories, including electrical panels, television cameras, refined lead and B.C. plywood. Unlike previous U.S. trade measures, products covered under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) will not be exempt, increasing concerns for exporters in the province.

Last year, U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum and automobiles had a significant impact on manufacturing industries in Ontario and Quebec. The latest measures are expected to shift a greater share of the economic impact to British Columbia because of the broader range of products affected.